The net income figure fell below the expectations of analysts polled by Thomson Financial, who expected earnings of 35 cents per share. Revenue was just above forecasts of $8.42 billion.

Same-store sales, or sales in stores open at least 14 months, a key measure of industry performance, rose 4.8 percent, as customers spent more on items such as flat-screen televisions and notebook computers.

Imperial Sugar reports quarterly profit

SUGAR LAND, Texas - Imperial Sugar Co. (NYSE: IPSU) , one of the largest sugar refiners in the United States, on Tuesday reported a quarterly profit of $15.7 million, or $1.36 per share, compared with a loss of $20.3 million, or $1.92 per share, in the year-ago period, which included a more than $17.5 million loss from discontinued operations. Earnings from continuing operations, which excludes results from businesses that have been, or are in the process of being sold, totaled $1.34 per share, versus a 26-cent loss a year earlier.

Quarterly sales rose to $240.3 million from $226.6 million last year due primarily to an increase in domestic sugar prices, according to the company.

For the year, Imperial Sugar moved to a profit of $50.1 million, or $4.45 per share, from a loss of $19.3 million, or $1.84 per share, last year. Sales grew to $946.8 million from $803.8 million last year.

Dollar General 3Q revenue rises, but posts a loss on charges

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. - Discount retailer Dollar General Corp. (NYSE: DG) said Tuesday it swung to a loss in the third quarter as it took charges for changes in its inventory plan and store closings.

Loss for the quarter ended Nov. 3 totaled $5.3 million, or 2 cents per share, compared with a profit of $64.4 million, or 20 cents per share during the same period last year. Results include pre-tax costs and charges of $79.2 million, related to a move away from its inventory management model, which kept products on the shelf longer, and a plan to close 400 stores next year and open about 300 new locations.